"I have never liked the thought of the country. But of course it would be far less lonely and I suppose I could find enough to do in the village."
"Of course you would. You could start all sorts of things which Rachel is not in a fit state to do."
"Well I shall not come unless I am definitely asked by your wife," said Mrs. Greville, "as I am convinced that I should not be welcomed. Neither do I think it at all wise for a mother-in-law to take up her abode with her son and his wife. You will see that I am right."
Luke made the best of his time in Trowsby. He visited every member of his men's Bible class; had tea with Mrs. Stone, looked up the district visitors and finally found himself just in time to spring into the 8 o'clock train as it was moving out of the station.
Meanwhile Rachel had had a lovely day in the garden. Little Pat was in his perambulator by her side, crowing and happy. The birds were singing in the trees above her. The gardener was cutting the grass in another part of the garden with a scythe; that most delicious of all sounds; an occasional heavily laden cart passed in the lane near by. She rejoiced in every sight, sound, and smell, and the quiet and peace were as balm to her spirit.
When baby was taken away to be put to sleep for the night Rachel still lay on under the trees, and was fast asleep herself when Luke opened the gate.
"Have you had a nice day?" she said, as she awoke at the sound of his footstep. But she saw the question was unnecessary. His face was radiant.
"First-rate," he said, taking a seat by her side. "I enjoyed every minute of it."
"How is your mother?"
For the moment Luke had forgotten about his suggestion to his mother; and the sudden remembrance of her words made him hesitate before answering; then he said: